Wolfsberger AC vs PAOK

Return to European Football

Wolfsberger AC secured their return to European football, re-entering the Europa League after a four-year hiatus, a significant achievement following their Austrian Cup victory.

Productive Pre-season

Their pre-season campaign proved quite productive, with the Austrian side registering four wins, one draw, and a single defeat across six matches. Notable fixtures included tests against strong European contenders like Braga (a 0-2 loss) and Besiktas (a thrilling 3-2 victory).

Busy Start to the Season

The competitive season is already in full swing, with Wolfsberger AC actively participating in the domestic Cup, Europa League qualifiers, and the Austrian Bundesliga.

Mixed Domestic Results

Kicking off their official campaign, the “Wolves” comfortably dispatched lower-league side Wallern with a 3-1 victory in the Cup. However, their Bundesliga season began with a setback, a 0-2 defeat to Altach in the opening round. They quickly bounced back in the third matchday, securing a somewhat surprising 2-0 away win against Vienna Austria.

Tactical Approach Against PAOK

In their initial European encounter against PAOK, Dietmar Kühbauer’s squad exhibited a disciplined performance, prioritizing a strong defensive setup as anticipated. Acknowledging PAOK’s quality and the notoriously raucous atmosphere in Thessaloniki, Wolfsberger AC successfully nullified their opponents, resulting in a cautious and ultimately goalless 0-0 draw.

Team News: Wolfsberger AC

Drame is unavailable for this fixture due to personal reasons, while Nwaivu remains sidelined with an injury.

Pre-season Preparations

PAOK’s preparations for the Europa League commenced with pre-season training camps, as their domestic league season is yet to begin. Their pre-season results were varied, including a 1-2 loss to Ajax, an exciting 3-3 draw with Go Ahead Eagles, and two victories over Apollon (3-1) and NEC Nijmegen (3-2).

First Leg Disappointment

Heading into the first leg against the Austrian side, PAOK were widely regarded as strong favorites, given their extensive European experience and the significant home advantage. However, neither factor proved decisive. Wolfsberger AC arrived in Thessaloniki with a resolute defensive strategy, effectively stifling the “Double-headed Eagles,” who struggled to create any genuine clear-cut chances. A solitary moment for Pink was arguably the closest they came, but it was far from a definite opportunity.

Historical Struggles in Austria

PAOK’s historical record in Austria is concerning, as they have never secured a victory against Austrian opposition on their home turf, with a record of two draws and three defeats. The upcoming match presents an opportunity to finally break this unfavorable streak.

Team News: PAOK

Răzvan Lucescu will be without Despodov for this clash, which should open up an opportunity for Chalov to feature.